We wouldn't say that "getting there is half the fun", but we would say that the driving is easy and the views are spectacular! You´ll pass through several scenic ecosystems on your way to the Lodge:

From San José, follow the Panamerican Highway #1 towards the North-West, passing the international Airport Juan Santamaria. When reaching the intersection to Grecia, turn right and drive through Grecia town center. At the red metal church (it's worth a visit!) turn left, and at the next turn left again (around the church), then follow the signs to the crafts town of Sarchi, which is famous for its decorative paintings and ox carts.
Drive through Sarchí, then towards Naranjo. Follow the signs to Zarcero and Ciudad Quesada (road # 141). From Ciudad Quesada continue towards Aguas Zarcas and Pital.

As you descend, lies the famous warm low lands of San Carlos, producing sugar cane, yucca, pineapple and most of the citrus fruits grown in Costa Rica.

The road is paved clear to Pital, over 60 miles from San José, after which is a good gravel surfaced road for another 18 miles to Boca Tapada. And from there another 4 miles also on a firm gravel road to the Laguna del Lagarto Lodge.

How to get there - detailed map...

To get to the Hotel by public transport, take the bus from downtown San José bus station on 9th Avenue/12th street, departing daily at 5:30am and 12:30 pm directly to Pital with connection to Boca Tapada, where you will be picked up at prior request.

The hotel offers transfers from/to San José, La Fortuna, Guapiles & Sarapiqui (>> rates).